Livetock Ship For Sale

Why Choose APS Ship Brokers for Your Livestock Carrier Purchase?

Buying a livestock carrier is one of the most specialised transactions in the shipping market. Unlike bulk carriers or tankers, livestock vessels demand a thorough understanding of animal welfare regulations, ventilation systems, feeding infrastructure, and international trade routes. At :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}, we combine decades of maritime expertise with an in-depth knowledge of the live animal export industry to ensure every transaction is handled with precision and care.

We work directly with shipowners, operators, and investors across the Middle East, Australia, South America, Europe, and Southeast Asia — giving our clients access to an extensive pipeline of on-market and off-market livestock carrier listings that simply cannot be found elsewhere.

Whether you are an established live export company looking to expand your fleet, or a new entrant seeking guidance on your first vessel acquisition, APS Ship Brokers is your trusted partner from first enquiry to final delivery.

Livestock Carriers for Sale — Current Market Overview

The global trade in live animals — including cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and horses — depends on a small but critical fleet of purpose-built and converted livestock carriers. Demand for these vessels is driven by food security policies in import-dependent nations across the Gulf, North Africa, and East Asia, as well as the ongoing live export programmes from Australia, Brazil, Uruguay, and Eastern Europe.

Today, the worldwide livestock carrier fleet numbers fewer than 200 active vessels, making this a uniquely tight and specialist market. Vessels range from compact coastal ships carrying 500 to 2,000 head of cattle, to large purpose-built carriers capable of transporting over 100,000 sheep on a single voyage.

At APS Ship Brokers, we monitor this market continuously. Our brokers maintain active relationships with vessel owners and operators across every major trading region, ensuring that when a livestock ship becomes available for sale, our clients hear about it first.

Types of Livestock Ships Available Through APS Ship Brokers

Purpose-Built Livestock Carriers

These vessels are specifically designed from the keel up for the transportation of live animals. They feature multi-deck configurations, purpose-engineered ventilation systems, integrated feeding and watering infrastructure, and animal welfare monitoring technology. Purpose-built livestock carriers typically offer the highest standards of animal care and compliance with international :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} and :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} regulations.

Converted Livestock Carriers

Many livestock carriers currently trading were converted from general cargo vessels, RoRo ships, or bulk carriers. A well-executed conversion can deliver excellent carrying capacity at a lower acquisition cost than a purpose-built vessel. APS Ship Brokers assists buyers in assessing conversion quality, structural integrity, and the cost implications of any outstanding maintenance or survey requirements.

Small and Coastal Livestock Vessels

For operators serving regional or coastal live animal trades, smaller vessels of 500 to 3,000 DWT offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness. These ships are commonly used for short-haul routes, such as cattle movements within the Arabian Gulf or sheep shipments between Mediterranean ports.

Large Ocean-Going Livestock Carriers

For long-haul routes such as Australia to the Middle East, South America to China, or East Africa to the Gulf, large ocean-going livestock carriers of 5,000 DWT and above are essential. These vessels typically carry between 5,000 and 30,000 heads of small livestock or 1,500 to 5,000 heads of large livestock.

Key Specifications to Consider When Buying a Livestock Carrier

Animal Capacity and Deck Configuration

Livestock ships are rated by the number of animal heads carried, based on average weight categories. Capacity depends on the number of decks, total pen area, and animal type. Standard cattle pens allow approximately 1.8 to 2.5 m² per head, while sheep pens are more compact.

Ventilation Systems

Adequate airflow is critical to animal welfare and regulatory compliance. Purpose-built vessels are equipped with forced mechanical ventilation systems designed to maintain precise air changes per hour. For converted vessels, ventilation systems require particularly careful technical inspection.

Feeding and Watering Systems

Modern livestock carriers feature automated feeding systems, freshwater supply networks, and bulk feed storage. The capacity of these systems directly determines voyage duration and operating economics.

Classification and Flag State

All commercial livestock carriers must hold a valid class certificate issued by a recognised classification society — such as Lloyd's Register, DNV, Bureau Veritas, or Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (NK). Buyers should verify the current survey status, including Special Survey and Dry Dock dates, before proceeding with any purchase.

International Regulations and Compliance

The live export trade is governed by international animal welfare guidelines, IMO safety regulations, and importing country veterinary requirements. APS Ship Brokers works alongside specialist maritime lawyers and compliance advisors to ensure every listed vessel meets current regulatory standards.

The APS Ship Brokers Buying Process

Step 1 — Requirement Assessment

We begin with a detailed consultation covering trade routes, animal species, capacity requirements, vessel age, budget, and preferred flag.

Step 2 — Vessel Search and Shortlisting

Using our global network and market intelligence, we identify suitable vessels and pre-screen them for class status, survey history, and compliance.

Step 3 — Inspection and Due Diligence

We coordinate inspections, appoint independent surveyors, and deliver a comprehensive due diligence report covering technical condition, trading history, and liabilities.

Step 4 — Negotiation and Offer

Our brokers negotiate price and contract terms under internationally recognised ship sale agreements, protecting buyer interests throughout.

Step 5 — Delivery and Handover

We manage documentation, flag and class transfer, and physical delivery at the agreed port, remaining involved until final handover is complete.

Selling a Livestock Carrier?

APS Ship Brokers provides specialist sale and purchase services for livestock vessel owners. We offer confidential off-market transactions as well as full-market sales campaigns, ensuring maximum exposure to qualified buyers worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions — Livestock Carrier for Sale

What is a livestock carrier ship?

A livestock carrier is a specialised vessel designed to transport live animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and horses, equipped with pens, ventilation, feeding systems, and animal care facilities.

How much does a livestock carrier cost?

Prices vary by size, age, and condition. Small coastal vessels may cost under USD 1 million, while large ocean-going carriers can exceed USD 10 million.

Can a standard cargo ship be converted into a livestock carrier?

Yes. Many livestock vessels began as cargo or RoRo ships. A professional conversion includes decks, ventilation, feeding systems, and waste management installations.

Talk to Our Livestock Carrier Specialists

APS Ship Brokers is a globally recognised brokerage specialising in the sale and purchase of livestock carriers. Our team supports buyers and sellers worldwide with confidential, professional, and responsive service.

APS Ship Brokers — Specialist Sale and Purchase Brokers for Livestock Carriers, Cattle Ships, and Live Animal Vessels Worldwide